BACKGROUND:

Ammoniated Cottonseed Meal is a food additive used in animal feed as a source of protein and/or non-protein nitrogen for ruminants. Such use is permitted by 21 CFR 573.140.

<> Claimants of seized aflatoxin contaminated cottonseed meal have routinely proposed ammoniation as a method of reconditioning the product. However, the intent of 21 CFR 573.140 is for ammoniation of a product which is in compliance with the law. It is not intended to be a means of detoxifying cottonseed meal bearing aflatoxin above the <> action levels. The safety of detoxified cottonseed meal is unknown. *The action levels for aflatoxin in feeds are found in Compliance Policy Guide 7126.33.*

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POLICY:

21 CFR 573.140 is intended for the ammoniation of cottonseed meal which is in compliance with the law. Ammoniation may not be used under this regulation to detoxify cottonseed meal *intended for interstate shipment containing aflatoxin above the action levels.*

*Material between asterisks is new or revised*
<> Indicates material has been deleted

Issued: 10/1/80
Revised: 3/95

Questions?